ASUU Threatens Strike, Issues 14-Day Ultimatum to FG

ASUU also expressed concern over the proliferation of universities by federal and state governments, urging the implementation of reports from visitation panels to universities.

Abuja, Nigeria – The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a fresh 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to address several unresolved issues or face industrial action.

ASUU’s demands center on the completion of the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement, based on the Nimi Briggs Committee’s 2021 Draft Agreement. Additionally, the union is pushing for the release of withheld salaries due to the 2022 strike action.

In a statement released on Wednesday, ASUU President Emmanuel Osodeke expressed frustration over the government’s perceived lack of commitment and delay tactics. He warned that these delays are aggravating the crisis within the public university system.

“ASUU resolves to give the Nigerian Government another 14 days, in addition to the earlier 21 days, starting from Monday, September 23, 2024, during which all lingering issues must be satisfactorily addressed,” Osodeke said. “The union should not be held responsible for any industrial disharmony that may arise if the government fails to seize this opportunity.”

Beyond the implementation of the 2021 agreement, ASUU’s demands include the release of unpaid salaries for staff on sabbatical, part-time, and adjunct appointments, all affected by the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS). The union is also calling for the payment of outstanding third-party deductions such as check-off dues and cooperative contributions.

Other key demands include funding for the revitalization of public universities, captured in the 2023 Federal Government Budget, and payment of Earned Academic Allowances, also partly included in the budget.

ASUU also expressed concern over the proliferation of universities by federal and state governments, urging the implementation of reports from visitation panels to universities.

They are also demanding the reversal of the dissolution of university Governing Councils and the adoption of the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS) as a replacement for IPPIS.

The clock is ticking for the government to act before the ultimatum expires, with the threat of another disruptive strike looming.